The Law Society is seeking new members to join its international human rights committee and complement the knowledge and experience of its existing members.

The committee assists the international department of the Society in promoting international human rights at home and abroad.

It also supports the department in its project work in helping to develop access to justice worldwide.

The Law Society's terms of reference on international human rights are: supporting lawyers whose own human rights are violated; opposing the death penalty when imposed in violation of international (UN) human rights standards; supporting lawyers working for the implementation of international human rights standards in their own jurisdictions; involving the profession in England and Wales in current issues around international human rights.

Applicants should have sound knowledge and experience of at least one of the following areas of law or practice: international human rights and humanitarian law, bodies and mechanisms; one or more regional systems for the protection of human rights; international experience of legal education or training; working with international development or funding organisations.

The committee meets up to six times a year (travelling and incidental expenses are paid) and members are expected to attend most meetings.

Membership will also require an occasional time commitment between meetings.

Initial appointments are for three years.

All solicitors or other suitable candidates with the enthusiasm, expertise and time necessary, irrespective of sex, colour, age, sexuality, religion or disability are welcome to apply.

Appointments will be made following interviews of short listed candidates to establish that the committee covers all of the areas in which the Law Society requires expertise.

For an application pack, contact the International Department of the Law Society, tel: 0207 320 5881; fax: 0207 831 0057; e-mail: internationalhumanrights@ lawsociety.org.uk, or by post at: The Law Society, International Department, 113 Chancery Lane, London WC2A 1PL or DX 56 London/Chancery Lane.

The closing date for applications is 29 June 2004.

Interviews will be held later in June or early July.